Drone defense system

Abstract

Drone defense system comprising detection devices (10), an evaluation unit and a weapon unit (20), wherein the weapon unit (20) has a multiplicity of firing devices (21).

Description

[0001] Drone defense system

[0002] The present invention relates to a drone defense system for the detection and neutralization of drones.

[0003] Various types of drone defense systems are known. These systems typically detect a drone using radar or an optical system. Neutralization, i.e., preventing the drone from remaining on its intended flight path, can be achieved by jamming the control signal between the drone and the control unit, by shooting it down, or by capturing it with nets or other capture devices.

[0004] A disadvantage of existing systems is their slow operation or low success rate, which can manifest, for example, as incomplete drone neutralization. Drones are often not detected because they cannot be distinguished from other flying objects, such as birds. Furthermore, electronic signal jammers have a limited coverage area and may also interfere with other nearby electronic devices. These systems are also space-consuming, and their operation often requires additional, geographically separated components, control stations, or similar equipment.

[0005] The object of the invention is to overcome the disadvantages known from the prior art. One of the objects of the invention can therefore be considered to be the provision of a drone defense system that can quickly and reliably identify and neutralize drones. To achieve this object, a drone defense system is provided comprising detection devices, an evaluation unit, and a weapon unit, wherein the weapon unit has a plurality of firing devices.

[0006] The drone defense system thus comprises two or more detection devices. A detection device is a component that monitors the environment and detects flying objects in the vicinity. For this purpose, the detection device can use various technologies and sensors. The detection devices preferably enable the determination of various parameters of a flying object, such as direction of movement, speed, size, heat emission, and / or shape.

[0007] The drone defense system further comprises an evaluation unit. The evaluation unit is a component that processes the data collected by the detection devices. The evaluation unit is preferably configured to recognize patterns or features in the data that indicate the presence of a drone, such as shapes, specific movement patterns, and / or signatures of electronic, thermal, or acoustic signals. Preferably, the evaluation unit can compare the recognized patterns with known drone patterns to identify the flying object as a drone. The evaluation unit is thus preferably configured to determine the flight direction, speed, and / or temperature of the detected drone.Preferably, the evaluation unit is configured to determine, based on the evaluated data, whether the aircraft should be neutralized and to communicate with the weapon unit if neutralization is required. The evaluation unit is preferably configured to define the parameters for neutralization. The evaluation unit can thus function as a control device for the weapon unit. The evaluation unit is therefore preferably configured to align and fire the firing devices.

[0008] Preferably, the evaluation unit utilizes artificial intelligence. Preferably, the evaluation unit can rely on a specially trained AI neural network. This neural network preferably undergoes a continuous learning process to steadily improve its ability to detect and identify drones. In particular, the artificial intelligence can increase safety by ensuring that neutralization only occurs when no people or obstacles are detected in the line of fire.

[0009] The drone defense system further comprises a weapon unit. The weapon unit is the component designed to neutralize the drone. For this purpose, the weapon unit has a plurality of firing devices. According to the invention, "plurality" means at least two. Preferably, the weapon unit comprises at least three, more preferably at least six, and most preferably at least nine firing devices. However, more firing devices, for example at least 15 or at least 20, can also be provided.

[0010] A firing device is understood to be the component of the weapon system designed to fire shots. Firing devices are preferably configured so that the firing angle is variably adjustable. Preferably, the firing devices are pivotably mounted for this purpose. Preferably, the firing devices are pivotably mounted about a horizontal axis of rotation. The barrels are preferably aligned orthogonally to the horizontal axis of rotation. Preferably, the firing angles of each firing device are independently adjustable.

[0011] Particularly in embodiments including non-variably adjustable firing angles of the firing devices, the firing devices can be fixedly mounted at different firing angles.

[0012] The drone defense system can monitor a large airspace and boasts high reliability due to its numerous detection devices. These multiple devices also enable the simultaneous detection of several drones. The variety of firing mechanisms allows for the simultaneous neutralization of multiple drones and a rapid response time, regardless of the drone's direction of travel. In particular, the drone defense system exhibits a high reaction speed at close range, enabling rapid detection, identification, and neutralization, including complete destruction. Neutralization can occur within 10 seconds of drone detection. The drone defense system is compact and requires no additional, geographically separated components, control stations, or similar infrastructure. It can be deployed on moving vehicles.

[0013] In an advantageous embodiment, the drone defense system comprises at least three, preferably at least four, detection devices. Preferably, the detection devices differ in their nature, i.e., they preferably utilize different technologies and sensors. This improves detection accuracy. This approach is particularly advantageous because different types of drones and varying flight conditions present a diverse range of detection challenges. Depending on the specific characteristics of the drone, such as its size, shape, flight speed, and altitude, one particular detection system may be more effective than another.For example, radar might be particularly effective at detecting large drones at medium to long ranges, while optical cameras or acoustic sensors might be better suited for detecting small, fast-flying drones at close range. By integrating various detection devices with different strengths and capabilities, the drone defense system can cover a wide range of drone threats. This flexibility and adaptability is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of the drone defense system and ensuring reliable detection accuracy under varying conditions. Preferably, the detection devices are selected from the group consisting of radar, video camera, thermal imaging camera, and LiDAR.Preferably, the drone defense system thus comprises a radar detection device, a video camera detection device, a thermal imaging camera detection device, and a LiDAR detection device.

[0014] A radar detection device uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves to detect objects in the air. It emits radar beams that are reflected by objects. By analyzing the reflected signals, the position, speed, and direction of the drone can be determined, regardless of lighting conditions or weather.

[0015] A video camera detection device captures visual images of the environment. Due to its high resolution and flexibility, it can help identify and track drones.

[0016] A thermal imaging camera detection device detects the infrared radiation emitted by objects. Since drones emit heat, thermal imaging cameras can be used to detect drones even in low light conditions or at night.

[0017] A LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) device emits laser pulses and measures the time it takes for the pulses to be reflected back from the target object. This technology allows for the precise determination of the distance and position of objects. LiDAR can also be used to detect the shape and movement of objects and to distinguish them from other objects. It is particularly useful in environments with a lot of background noise or complex terrain features.

[0018] The drone defense system preferably comprises several detection devices of the same type. It may include multiple radar, video camera, and / or LiDAR detection devices. The use of duplicate or multiple detection devices increases the reliability of the entire system and compensates for the failure of individual sensors. Preferably, the identical detection devices are oriented in opposite directions and / or spaced apart from each other.

[0019] Preferably, the drone defense system comprises several, preferably four, radar antennas, which are preferably oriented in different directions. These radar antennas can be arranged on the rotatable platform. These radar antennas can be phased-array antennas. Phased-array antennas consist of many individual radiators arranged in a matrix. By selectively shifting the phase of the transmitted signals, the antenna pattern can be electronically steered without the need for physical movement of the antenna. This enables fast and flexible beam control.

[0020] Preferably, the drone defense system includes a zenith camera. A zenith camera is a camera that monitors the area directly above the system. Preferably, this zenith camera is mounted on the rotating platform. This allows for effective monitoring of the airspace directly above the drone defense system.

[0021] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the detection devices are arranged on a rotatable platform. In another advantageous embodiment, the weapon unit is also arranged on a rotatable platform. Preferably, the detection devices and the weapon unit are arranged on the same rotatable platform. A turntable, for example, can serve as the rotatable platform. A rotatable platform is a mechanical device used to rotate objects about their axis of rotation. The rotatable platform can comprise a plate mounted on a bearing that can rotate about a central pivot point. The rotatable platform can have the form of a rotatable body, such as a cylinder. The firing devices can be attached to the outer surfaces of this body. The platform is preferably motorized. The detection devices and the weapon unit are preferably rotatable independently of each other.Preferably, the detection devices are arranged on a rotating platform, which in turn is mounted on another rotating platform with the weapon unit. In this way, 360-degree coverage of the surroundings can be achieved for the detection devices and / or for the weapon unit.

[0022] Preferably, the firing devices are arranged at the outer edge of the rotating platform. More preferably, the firing devices are arranged around the detection devices on the rotating platform. Preferably, the firing devices are spaced apart from each other. Such an arrangement enables dynamic and versatile coverage and monitoring of the airspace around the platform. The platform's rotation allows the firing devices to react quickly and precisely to drones approaching from different directions. This circumferential arrangement offers improved responsiveness and flexibility, as the firing devices are able to react rapidly to changing scenarios and neutralize drones approaching from various angles.Furthermore, the circumferential arrangement allows for efficient use of available capacity, as multiple firing devices can be deployed simultaneously to neutralize a larger number of drones. This configuration increases the effectiveness and efficiency of the drone defense system and helps to ensure comprehensive coverage of the protected airspace. Preferably, the detection devices are positioned centrally around the firing devices, so that the firing devices are arranged circumferentially around the detection device.

[0023] Preferably, the firing devices are designed to be loaded with shotgun cartridges. Shotgun ammunition consists of a multitude of small pellets or shot grains that are dispersed over a larger area upon firing. This allows for a wider dispersion of the ammunition and increases the probability of hitting a drone. According to the invention, it is also provided that the firing devices can be loaded with two-stage ammunition, so that a packed charge can be fired which explodes before reaching the target, forming a cloud of destructive elements. Preferably, the firing devices are thus designed to be loaded with a cartridge containing a two-stage shot charge. This allows a dense cloud of destructive elements to be generated directly in the flight path of a drone. Loading can be carried out through the muzzle end.

[0024] Preferably, the firing devices are designed to be loaded with different types of ammunition. The evaluation unit is preferably configured to select the firing device to be fired depending on the detected drone. The evaluation unit can select more than one firing device for firing, which can be fired simultaneously or at staggered intervals.

[0025] In an advantageous embodiment, the firing devices have multiple barrels. Each firing device can therefore have several barrels from which shots can be fired. These barrels are preferably aligned parallel to each other. In this way, shots can be fired rapidly in succession from the respective barrels of a single firing device without any time being lost for reloading.

[0026] Preferably, the firing devices feature interchangeable ammunition blocks. An ammunition block is understood to be a unit containing several cartridges or ammunition units that can be used as a single loading unit. It is therefore preferably a block that holds several barrels of cartridges together and organizes them as a cohesive unit for easy transport, storage, or use. An advantage of interchangeable ammunition blocks is that an empty ammunition block can be quickly exchanged for a loaded one, thus allowing a large number of shots to be reloaded in a short time.

[0027] Preferably, the drone defense system includes a signaling device designed to emit a warning signal upon detection of a drone. The warning signal can be visual and / or audible. This allows people in the vicinity of the drone to be alerted. The drone defense system is preferably designed to operate without an external power supply. For this purpose, the drone defense system can include an energy storage device, for example, in the form of a battery or accumulator. This allows the drone defense system to operate autonomously.

[0028] According to the invention, the detection devices and the evaluation unit can also be combined into a single device or housing. It is also provided that the evaluation unit can be housed in the rotatable platform, for example, in the rotatable body.

[0029] The drone defense system can comprise more than one weapon unit, each with a multitude of firing devices. It can also include multiple evaluation units. Likewise, it can include multiple detection devices, each assigned to one of the evaluation units. Thus, one or more of the detection devices can be exclusively assigned to one evaluation unit and one or more of the detection devices exclusively to another. Similarly, one weapon unit can be exclusively assigned to one evaluation unit and another weapon unit exclusively to the other. According to the invention, the evaluation units can access and control all weapon units. The weapon units, evaluation units, and / or detection devices can be arranged on a rotatable platform.These measures ensure that the system remains functional even if a weapon unit, evaluation unit, or detection device fails.

[0030] Two independently operating drone defense systems can be mounted on a single rotatable platform. It can also be provided that the evaluation unit of one system can access and control the components of the other system. In one embodiment, the drone defense system comprises several weapon units arranged spatially separated from one another, as well as several detection devices and an evaluation unit. The detection devices and the evaluation unit can be arranged together with one of the weapon units or at a distance from the weapon units.

[0031] The drone defense system according to the invention can of course also be used to defend against other flying objects besides drones.

[0032] The invention will be explained again below using the figures as an example.

[0033] Fig. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a drone defense system according to the invention. The weapon unit 20 is arranged on a rotatable platform 30. The weapon unit 20 comprises a plurality of firing devices 21. The firing devices 21 are arranged such that the firing angles differ. The firing devices 21 are arranged around the detection devices 10. The detection devices 10 are thus surrounded by the firing devices 21. The individual detection devices 10 are housed in a single enclosure. The evaluation unit of the drone defense system is also arranged in the same enclosure.

[0034] Fig. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a drone defense system according to the invention. The detection devices 10, housed in a casing, and the evaluation unit are arranged centrally on the rotatable platform 30. Three firing devices 21 are arranged around the casing on the rotatable platform 30. Each firing device 21 comprises an ammunition block 23. The firing devices 21, here the ammunition blocks 23, are vertically pivotable, so that the firing angle of each firing device 21 can be flexibly adjusted independently. Fig. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of an ammunition block 23 for a drone defense system according to the invention. The ammunition block comprises eight barrels, each of which can be loaded with a shotgun cartridge.

[0035] Fig. 4 shows an exemplary embodiment of a drone defense system according to the invention. The system has a rotatable platform 30 in the form of a rotatable body, on the outside of which the firing devices 21 of the weapon unit are mounted. The firing devices 21 each comprise two weapon barrels and are each rotatably mounted about a horizontal axis. The drone defense system includes radar antennas 12 oriented in four different directions. Above the radar antennas, on another rotatable platform, further detection devices 11 comprising two high-resolution video cameras, a thermal imaging camera, and a LiDAR are mounted. The modules are oriented at an angle of 180° to each other and to the horizon. Fig. 4B shows the drone defense system from Fig. 4A, in which the rotatable platform of the further detection devices 11 has been rotated by 90°.Above the other detection devices 11, a zenith camera 13 is mounted to monitor the area directly above the system.

[0036] Fig. 5 shows a cross-section of a double-barreled firing device 21 of a drone defense system according to the invention. The left barrel of the firing device 21 is loaded with a two-stage shotgun cartridge. The shotgun cartridge comprises a cartridge case 24 with a propellant charge 25 and a main charge 27, which are in contact with each other via a delay element. The projectile bodies 28 are arranged above the main charge 27. The firing device 21 has a drive 29 that pivots the firing device about a horizontal axis of rotation centered on the drive.

[0037] Fig. 6 shows an exemplary embodiment of a drone defense system according to the invention. The drone defense system comprises several weapon units 20, which are arranged at intervals from one another. It also includes detection devices 10 and an evaluation unit 40, which are housed together in a module but are spatially separated from the weapon units 20. The individual weapon units 20 differ from one another.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Drone defense system comprising detection devices (10), an evaluation unit and a weapon unit (20), wherein the weapon unit (20) comprises a plurality of firing devices (21).

2. Drone defense system according to claim 1, wherein the drone defense system has at least three, preferably at least four, preferably different, detection devices (10).

3. Drone defense system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detection devices (10) are selected from the group consisting of radar, video camera, thermal imaging camera and LiDAR.

4. Drone defense system according to one of claims 1 to 3, comprising an evaluation unit configured to process the data obtained from the detection devices (10), preferably using artificial intelligence.

5. Drone defense system according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the evaluation unit is configured to determine the flight direction, speed and / or temperature of the detected drone.

6. Drone defense system according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the evaluation unit is configured to determine the parameters for neutralization.

7. Drone defense system according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the detection devices (10) and / or the weapon unit (20) are arranged on a rotatable platform (30).

8. Drone defense system according to claim 7, wherein the firing devices (21) are arranged circumferentially around the detection devices (10) on the rotatable platform (30).

9. Drone defense system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the Firing devices (21) are designed to be loaded with shotgun cartridges.

10. Drone defense system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the firing devices (21) have multiple barrels (22) and / or wherein the firing devices (21) have interchangeable ammunition blocks (23).

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